Wine bars are cherished social and epicurean features of big cities, global destinations, seaside and après ski party towns in snowy valleys and slope-side. In big hotels and national capitals, they have names like Vagabond, The Remedy, Cork & Bottle, or Noble Rot.
In the Ottawa region there is award-winning sommeliere Véronique Rivest’s SOIF Bar à Vin (English translation “Thirst” is so appropriate). On the map — using Google or any other search engine — you will find only one wine bar nearby. Wander is wonderful, and no other Northern Ontario municipality has anything like this.
Unique might capture the essence, but it is more special than that. A relaxed, exceptional place pleases the eye and other senses.
Travelling the world, Stephanie Piché has been inspired to bring her experiences home. Piché is a chef, cooking instructor, wine educator, travel presenter, food writer and blogger, and has now opened her own cultural magnet. Some say ‘finally” as they have been waiting for the day when something like this would actually arrive.
Piché made it happen. She pushed herself for a 2019 launch, but it took longer and finally opened Jan. 4, 2020, just over a year ago.
“I have a dress code,” Piché said. “Put extra effort into your attire; pretend it is a first date night. It is only 1,100 square feet, but it is a compilation of places I’ve been to across Europe and even South America.” It is a bijoux with its glimmering ceiling lights, gloss and ‘je ne sais quoi’ that mark it with that special, elusive finish so many establishments strive for.
The curtains fashion the feel of a grand hotel lobby bar in some distant destination. It’s modern and classic at the same time.
“In this quiet space you are transported. It is an exhale of relaxation. I knew what I wanted to create.” The right wallpaper, the central feature custom-made map, plus the colour of the upholstery, all express a consistent atmosphere of quality of life.
Small plates, and even dessert are part of the joy on offer, more than wine is what it is about. By-the-glass or by-the-bottle, the choices are like no other.
“Argentinian Malbec is magic, and often what we have on the blackboard, too, is an eye-opener for customers. We try to provide something so much more than the standard list.”
That list is continually in rotation. Nothing is static because the world of wine is something that should always pique our curiosity and attention.
“We have sparkling — sparkling Pinot Grigio even! The good representation of Ontario wineries are something I do on purpose. Niagara is not that far away, but there are so many properties and producers to explore. I’ve had the good fortune to visit 36 countries and so many wine regions within each, I just want to share my enthusiasm.
“I try to pair with the food of the place, too. This [blackboard] is a visual and culinary representation of my passport.”
Piché is never one to stand still. That blackboard must have more than 80 selections for your pleasure. Enjoying fine wines is not about dollars. There are great values and amazing tastes waiting for you.
“I personally do lean heavily toward Italy and France,” she said. But there are South African Chenins, Petite Syrah from California, and, she whispers, there are delicate Pinot Noirs and exceptional Burgundies and Bordeaux for those who wish.
Closed Mondays, a reservation is recommended. Limited seating is actually more about tables.
“You have to be creative during these times.” Portable plexiglass dividers will help Wander reconfigure the floor space.
Piché’s tapas (little bites) or hors d'oeuvres include parmesan truffle fries, and chorizo sausage in red wine. There are also desserts: chocolate, olive oil and sea salt toast and buttermilk panna cotta that is described in the online menu as “light and luscious and served with mixed berry compote.”
“I can do a seven-course dinner. We have a full professional kitchen,” Piché said.
Add wine education (now virtual), private wine tastings, and cooking classes. “We will be ready to ring in 2021 properly with everyone as soon as we are able!”
Wander Food & Wine, “So elegant,” is a comment you will routinely hear from patrons.
It’s true! See for yourself.
Located in the heart of downtown Sudbury, Wander Food and Wine is at
112 Durham
Tel: 705-586-3386
[email protected]
Closed currently, but normally Tuesday to Saturday 5-9 p.m.
Check the website for up to date information: WanderFoodandWine.ca
Hugh Kruzel is a committed foodie and a freelance writer in Greater Sudbury. Let’s Eat is made possible by our Community Leaders Program. Are you an advertiser? Learn more about our Community Leaders Program here.
